The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ondo/Ekiti Area Command, has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, purportedly showing auto dealers from the Southwest region alleging extortion by Customs officers. The Command empathises with the concerns raised and deems it necessary to provide clarity while assuring stakeholders of its commitment to professionalism and integrity.
Preliminary findings indicate that the auto dealers in question were on their way to Ekiti State for a regional meeting and were not intercepted by Customs officers. Rather, they voluntarily stopped to interact with officers who were performing their legitimate constitutional duties. The allegation of extortion to the tune of one million naira appears to be misleading. Available records suggest that the amount referenced was connected to an assessment for underpayment, which was duly raised in accordance with the law and subsequently paid into the coffers of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
In the spirit of transparency and accountability, the Command has since met with representatives of the Auto Dealers Association to address the matter. During the engagement, assurances were given that measures are being put in place to streamline operational procedures and prevent any recurrence of incidents that could be misconstrued as unprofessional conduct. On their part, members of the Association have tendered an apology to the Service.
The Command also wishes to notify the public that a new Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Queen Obaze, has assumed duty in Ondo/Ekiti Area Command. She brings with her a wealth of experience and a proven track record of integrity, and she is committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and accountability in line with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the Management of the Service.
To further strengthen operational standards, the Customs Area Controller has approved additional training for officers, covering modules on operational engagement, enforcement procedures, reputation management, and stakeholder relations. These initiatives are aimed at deepening professionalism, enhancing compliance, and consolidating public trust.
While the NCS remains open to constructive engagement, stakeholders are encouraged to channel any grievances or complaints through the established official platforms of the Service. We urge the public to avoid hasty judgments based on unverified claims, as the Service remains unwavering in its resolve to discharge its statutory responsibilities with fairness, integrity, and respect for the rule of law.
Signed:
Aondoakura Dzungwenen
Superintendent of Customs
Public Relations Officer
Ondo/Ekiti Area Command
Nigeria Customs Service
15 September 2025
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